“Women's Story Don't Get Told”: Experience and Resilience in the Aftermath of Gun Violence Survivorship

• In Event: Gun Violence Victimization

Abstract

In the United States, the firearm homicide rate surpasses that of other industrialized nations by over 25 times, presenting a dire public health crisis. Among the affected, women survivors of community-based firearm injuries represent a growing yet understudied demographic. From 2000 to 2017, significant increases in firearm injuries among younger women were observed, with data from 2023 in Chicago highlighting a disturbing trend: 90 women killed and 391 injured, surpassing total survivor counts in cities like Boston and Seattle. This study contributes to the scant literature by conducting 11 qualitative interviews with women gunshot survivors in Chicago, exploring their nuanced experiences of survivorship. It examines how gendered norms shape resilience and vulnerability, impact self-view, and influence personal narratives of safety and identity. Key findings include: 1) Gendered Perspectives on Gun Violence Survival: Delves into societal constructs around femininity and their effects on women's experiences and support mechanisms. 2) Transformed Self-Concept: Reveals significant shifts in survivors' self-perception and societal roles. 3) Post-Traumatic Growth: Highlights the positive psychological and personal changes post-injury. The study concludes with practice and policy recommendations related to the unique needs of women gunshot survivors and their families.

Authors

• Nathan Aguilar, Columbia University

• Owyn Guinnip, Columbia University

• Gabrielle Andrade, Columbia University

• Samantha Winter, Columbia University